Hi i am upgrading my Dell Desktop PC's CPU from a Pentium 4 1.7Ghz to a 3Ghz CPU i was wondering if i will be needing a new Heatsink/Fan to cool the CPU or if the one that came with my PC?

Any info would be very helpful!

Many thanks in advance
Rob

Replies:

By: Tillmann (IP: 146.140.7.*)Written on: 19-06-2006 10:48

Hi,

yes, chances are that you need a new heatsink. You also need a new motherboard and possibly even a new power supply.

bye,
Tillmann

By: Rob G (IP: 195.8.161.*)Written on: 19-06-2006 14:48

Hi thanks for the reply,
How will i know if i need all this new stuff?
Will my computer not start up or will it say that it's not compatable or something?
Thanks
Rob

By: Tillmann (IP: 146.140.7.*)Written on: 19-06-2006 14:56

Hi,

normally, you can check with the websites of the manufacturers (motherboard, power supply, etc) for compability information with newer CPUs. However, Dell uses proprietary motherboards (that is, their own motherboards and not ones as sold by manufacturers like Asus, Gigabyte, etc), and they don't provide much information as far as upgradability is concerned.

Personally, I think it's not worth the hassle to upgrade a Dell machine, unless you enjoy experimenting. Better get a new PC, maybe this time one from a smaller manufacturer that uses standard components that are also sold separately in the retail market. This will make future upgrades easier.

bye,
Tillmann

By: Tillmann (IP: 146.140.7.*)Written on: 19-06-2006 14:59

Hi,

PS, regarding your first question:

Most likely your PC will not start up. Instead, it will beep or do nothing at all. In the worst case, the new CPU may be damaged, although this is unlikely. Older Pentium 1.7GHz CPUs were supplied by the motherboard with a much higher voltage that today's 3GHz CPUs.